5 Tips for Seniors to Stay Fit in the New Year

Jennifer Schweizer, fitness manager at Cedar Crest, an Erickson Living retirement community in Pompton Plains, New Jersey, provides the following tips for seniors to stay fit:

The more you exercise, the more you will reap the benefits, so it’s important to stay motivated.

• Keep a log. Writing down your activities in an exercise journal not only holds you accountable but also is a reminder of accomplishments.
• Stay inspired. Reading health magazines or watching sports shows can help remind you how great it feels to take care of your body. Or try a new class or treat yourself to a massage.
• Get support. It’s easier to keep going with support. Consider taking a class or exercising with your spouse or a buddy. Personal training is a great place to begin your journey as well.
• Exercise safely. Nothing derails an exercise plan like an injury. Use common sense and don’t exercise if you are ill. Wear brightly colored clothing to be visible on the roads. When the weather brings slippery conditions, walk at a mall indoors to prevent falling.
• Nutrition. Choose a healthy breakfast to begin your day. The amount of fruits and vegetables is a very important part of your diet. Also, staying hydrated all year round, not just during the summer months.

Jennifer Schweizer MS, LMT, has over 20 years of experience in the health and wellness field. She obtained a master's degree in exercise physiology from Bloomsburg University in 2004. She also is a licensed massage therapist and has been in practice since 1999. Schweizer worked for Barnabas Health Care Systems for six years before joining the Cedar Crest team. Her main focus is to develop exercise plans for individuals who want to maintain their health, reduce their risk of disease or speed recovery from certain types of illness or surgery.

About Cedar Crest: Cedar Crest, one of 19 continuing care retirement communities managed by Erickson Living®, is situated on a scenic 130-acre campus in Pompton Plains, New Jersey. The community is located in Morris County and is home to 1,800 residents. Additional information about Cedar Crest can be found at CedarCrestCommunity.com.